Transcript for US Reveals Secret Mission Into Syria for Foley, Other Hostages

Now to new details about that shocking execution of American James Foley by Isis terrorists. His abductors demanding that huge ransom. More than $100 million. U.s. Special forces recently launching a secret mission to try to rescue him. ABC's chief investigative correspondent Brian Ross has been following this for us. Good morning, Brian. Good morning, robin. This morning the white house will face new questions with what went wrong with that mission to rescue them over the July 4th weekend. Officials tell ABC news several dozen special operation forces carried out the bold attempt only to find no hostages when they arrived. For the families of James Foley and the other U.S. Hostages it was more heartbreaking news of what could have been. This morning, authorities could be closing in on the identity of the hooded executioner. Using a database of known jihadists to look for a match with his eyes, his hands and most telling his voice, with what british authorities call a distinctive London accent. Plotted against us and gone far out of your way to find reasons to interfere in our affairs. Reporter: The director. The FBI says he is determined to find his killers. These savages have turned it into a homicide investigation. Reporter: New details about his treatment in captivity provided to ABC news by one of his former fellow hostages, French journalist Nicolas henin. He was kind of a scapegoat. Every time there would be a round of kicks and punches, it would get a bit more than the others typically. Reporter: Of the several U.S. Hostages Foley was picked as the first to be executed. His kidnappers sent word to his family and bosses at globalpost last week that they intended to kill him. We responded to it and pleaded with them not to take that action. Clearly they didn't listen to us. Reporter: As the outrage over the scene spreads across the world, the Vatican said pope Francis intends to call Foley's parents today to offer his condolences for their brave son. He was strong, courageous, loving to the end. I mean, we just highly recognize our little boy. I mean, he just -- he was just a hero. You know. You know from the videos that his last words were, I "I wish I had more time to see my family." Reporter: There was no further word today and growing concern about the fate of the other American hostage shown on the video, Steven sotloff. What more about this huge ransom. It was 100 million euros which is about $130 million and the boss at "Globalpost" said they never took it seriously. Thank you, Brian. More from Martha Raddatz in

This transcript has been automatically generated and may not be 100% accurate.

US Intelligence Confirms ISIS Video Is Authentic

Video released by the Jihadist militants shows the beheading of American journalist James Foley.

Parents of James Foley Hold Press Conference After Son's Execution

John and Diane Foley believe that their son "felt committed to the people who were trying to become free."

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